Nov 17, 2022

Greetings,

This weekend is Solemnity of Christ the King (although in the extraordinary form, it has already been celebrated). It was established in 1925 (and so is only a couple of years older than our parish!) with the encyclical Quas primas (“In the first”) in response to growing secularism and atheism, which was seen even then as a threat to Western Culture.

This day is to give all Christians hope that, no matter what be happening in the world, no matter how the nations rage and their peoples become increasing rooted in the things of this passing life, God is King. God has already won. This is a period of grace, in which He allows His people the chance to turn to Him. No matter how unstable the world may seem, God is securely enthroned. So, have no fear or anxiety. Though He sits patiently and quietly in His tabernacle, He ultimately has things readily in hand.

The USCCB also declares this day as a day to pray for Religious Liberty. For more information and links, see this week’s Angelus Letter, where there will also be the links for World Youth Day celebrated this day.

IN OTHER NEWS:

MEET THE AUTHOR: Please help spread the news. Writer Dawn Eden Goldstein has written a book entitle, “Father Ed: The Story of Bill W.’s Spiritual Director.” Bill W. is one of the duo along with Dr. Bob who founded Alcoholics Anonymous. Ms. Eden Goldstein is coming to St. Sebastian Parish as part of her book tour because AA was largely founded within our parish boundaries. The event is free and the book will be available for purchase. See you in the church on Friday, December 2 at 7pm.

THANKSGIVING: The parish offices will be closed Thursday and Friday. Mass on Thanksgiving Day will be at 9am. The word Eucharist comes from the Greek word Eucharistia which itself means thanks giving. What better way to start off a day of giving thanks than to give thanks to Him Who made all things? Also, there will be an Ecumenical Thanksgiving celebration at St. Paul Episcopal church on Market at 9am. While you are there, you might take in the photographic art show on display by one of our parishioners, Mr. Tom Reiderman.

ADVENT CANDLES: The was a surprising surge in demand for Advent Candles this year! Midway through Sunday morning we were already sold out. There will be one more batch put out this week.

NINE NIGHTS OF NIGHT PRAYER: Our Lady of Victory is one of nine Parishes in our Diocese who will be hosting “Nine Nights of Prayer” beginning Wednesday, November 30 and concluding on Thursday, December 8 (Church opens at 8:00pm; Prayer at 8:15pm). 

THEOLOGY ON THE ROCKS: Fr. David Stavarz will be speaking this Monday, November 21 at 7:30pm at El Rancho Mexican Restaurant. Admission $5.

GIVING TUESDAY: On Tuesday, November 29, we will be participating in #weGiveCatholic raising funds to replace our aging activity tables in chairs for our preschool students. See elsewhere in the bulletin for more details.

God bless,

Fr. Valencheck